How to deal with stress when changing jobs

Changing jobs can be extremely difficult and stressful.  The work that we can do efficiently becomes our comfort zone and therefore it can be difficult for us to change jobs.

Changing jobs usually generates mixed emotions. The typical thing is to feel positive emotions, such as the excitement of beginning something new and the ambition of reaching satisfactory professional achievements. But negative emotions can and usually come up, such as the panic of finding the right job, the application process, standing out from the crowd, and the fear of not being able to fully fulfill the new role.

1. Applying for a new job

Finding a job, Application forms, CVs, and Interviews can be very daunting. The overall process of changing jobs is an arduous one that needs diligent focus, planning, and preparation. Time and energy must be devoted to the search, never mind the completion of a CV, cover letter, and application form. If the prospective employer is interested in you, the long road of the selection process will commence, which may take up to sixty working days.

Some job-changing processes can be extremely lengthy and demanding. Depending on circumstances, how much you want the job, periods of silence and not knowing what is happening, all contribute to the difficulties of the job-changing process.

If the process goes reasonably smoothly, eventually it will be time to start a new job, which can be mostly a positive experience. However, that does not mean that adapting to the job change will be painless.

2. Adjusting to a job change

The most important thing when commencing a new job is adjusting to a new work ecosystem. This work ecosystem can involve strands such as adapting to the new responsibilities and tasks, colleagues, and the working patterns and ethos of the new company, among others.

One of the most challenging strands is adapting to a new social circle. An adaptation period is needed so that the new employee can understand and absorb how the company operates, the ethos and vision, and how roles and responsibilities are conducted. It is essential that support from colleagues is in place to make the transition as smooth and positive as possible.

When changing jobs, the new employee may feel vulnerable for an initial period. This is due to entering a new work environment where work and personal dynamics are already well established.

When entering this transition phase of a job change it is important to:

• Take time to adjust and learn all the new things that come with your new role.
• Keep a healthy routine.
• Get a good night’s sleep.
• Take time to unwind and be kind to yourself.
• Make time for family and friends.
• Be aware of your emotions.
• Expand your comfort zone, enhance your flexibility, and continue to learn.
• Stay positive and set realistic expectations.
• Use positive language.
• Wear clothes that raise your confidence.

3. Tips to help you succeed in your new post:

Represent yourself positively

Use every interaction to prove that you are a respectful, professional, and diligent employee and someone who your colleagues will enjoy spending time with.

Boundary setting

Setting healthy boundaries is a clarification of what you believe is acceptable and unacceptable to you in regard to how late you are willing to work, the total number of hours you are willing to work, and how personal you are willing to allow your new work relationships to be.

Mind your own business

Concentrate on your own specific roles and responsibilities. Many employees attempt to involve themselves in work matters that are none of their business which reflects badly on them. Work environments can frequently involve unnecessary gossip and cliques, all of which the sharp and wise new employee will avoid.

Select your work conflicts prudently

No new job goes without concerns, frustrations, and differing opinions. To maintain your sanity and productivity at work, it will be helpful for you to discern between the challenges you need to deal with and the ones you can disregard.

Establish good time management skills

Setting priorities, maintaining lists of tasks and actions to be addressed daily, and scheduling blocks of time to address certain items can be useful.

Ask and Absorb  

Do not be fearful to ask questions from team members to gain clarity when you need it. It is much more effective to gain the required information to handle things appropriately rather than learning the hard way that you are doing something incorrectly. No one should expect you to know everything about the new work environment right away.  This transition period will take time.

Also, be sure to listen carefully to advice and information so you do not have to ask the same questions repeatedly.

Changing jobs can be an extremely stressful period in anyone’s life. However, it is worth noting that this stress and anxiety can be lessened by prioritising your mental health and emotional well-being. Eat nutritious foods, rest well, exercise regularly, and make time for yourself. If you are feeling confident, healthy, and motivated, you will begin your job transition on a positive foot. Educate your brain to focus on positivity, establish realistic and achievable goals and outcomes, and learn and move on from any mistakes or misunderstandings. Manage your time diligently and avoid any work-setting negative drama.

By implementing these tips, you can flourish at your new job without being burdened with stress and anxiety.

Further stress-related articles:

• Mental Health Awareness for Managers
• Burnout – what can we do about it?
• The balancing act – how to keep your team happy and motivated
• Job Search Tips in a Post-COVID World

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